LOTS of people think that if they take money out of their bank account (or paypal account) and a transaction later goes bad, they're ok because they pulled the money out. NOT SO!! You're responsible for any charges that show up after you close the account and the bank/paypal will sure as hell come after you.

Paying via paypal on a stolen credit card is THE most common scam. It takes about 3 weeks for this to show up. A paypal 'donation' is not returnable, but i think there are limits.

USPS money order is the best way to go. Go to the PO and CASH it. THAT'S when you're in the clear - when the CASH is in your hand. Accept NO OTHER money order - USPS is the only one that you can convert to cash immediately.

Another vote for meet half-way. Get CASH in the NEW $100 bills (check the security thread on each bill, virtually NO chance of getting counterfeits). Meet in a public place like a library or, better yet, a police station. I'd bring a friend along as well.

Larger offices should be able to handle them, but with the USPS accepting credit and debit cards for certain purchases including money orders (well, debit card) I can imagine even more offices not having the cash.

Still, that's what I'd do.

When a good man is hurt,
all who would be called good
must suffer with him.

You and I have memories longer than the road that stretches out ahead.

There is no safety for honest men
except by believing all possible evil
of evil men.

We don’t do focus groups. They just ensure that you don’t offend anyone, and produce bland inoffensive products. —Sir Jonathan Ive